Hey readers! Last Wednesday (Oct 16), Microsoft Canada started the beat on its brand new Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 tablets with a surprise concert at Kool Haus in Toronto. Engaging an energetic and tech savvy audience, the firm brought in Canadian EDM superstar, deadmau5 to help with the launch.

The secret event was announced last minute with tickets being given out in key traffic areas around Toronto and through social media on the day of. Sneaky and exciting, isn’t it?

At the event, we were treated to a hands-on experience with the new tablets along with a chance to talk to a few Microsoft developers. Joel Zimmerman (deadmau5) himself even came out to give media a private interview. We think the Canadian artist and producer is a great partnership choice for Microsoft – given his knowledge and affinity for gadgets and tech.

Promising to be ‘the most personal and productive tablet experience on the market’, the new tablets feature significantly better processing power and battery life, a better display and camera resolution, and improved kickstand vs. its predecessor. The products will also come loaded with the new Windows RT 8.1 – something we’ve been excited about for quite some time.

So how about the show? Guys, this concert was a real treat for any Mau5 fan. Lucky attendees were treated to a full 1.5 hour set that included a few new tracks!

Overall, Microsoft did a great job with this one. Within the last few years, many tech companies have been partnering with big name artists to help tell their stories (see related: Rihanna, Psy, Flo Rida). This is a GOOD thing, and we hope it continues

Both the Surface 2 and the Surface Pro 2 will be available in Canada beginning October 22. The tablets are available for pre-order today at microsoftstore.ca.